Creative Programming: Be Heard! Friday, August 07, 2020
recommended by Jen Sper and Lora Moore, School Choral Music Specialists
The inherent value of choirs and musical ensembles is in the community and togetherness – even when apart. Whether you are teaching in-person or remotely, whether you are performing in-person or virtually, music allows your students’ voices to be heard!
One Million Voices by Brian Tate, SATB with piano
This original gospel-style piece uses a constantly growing, repeating melody to build strong energy and emotion throughout. It was inspired by the courage of individuals who are willing to take risks to come forward, speak their truths, and stand up for human rights. Easy to learn with a powerful message.
Soon We Will Be Done arr. Kyle Pederson, SATB with piano
Commissioned by The Wartburg Choir, Dr. Lee Nelson, conductor, the introduction is sung unaccompanied and the piano comes in for the first statement of the melody in the tenor/bass parts. Spoken-word soloists declaim in an almost rap-like fashion against the choir singing neutral syllables. A fun, fast, swinging piece that your singers will love.
Courage Calls to Courage by Emily Crocker, SA(T)B with piano & optional conga drum
2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution which granted a woman’s right to vote. The lyrics for this piece are based on the writings and speeches of several important women’s leaders who helped make this a reality. The music is sturdy and strong and represents those women whose words inform this story.
Sing, My Child by Sarah Quartel, SSAA a cappella with hand drum
“Sing, My Child” sets a joyful text celebrating the beauty found all around us in everyday life. Characterized by tight harmonies and a dynamic percussion line, the buoyant 7/8 meter of the opening drives the piece forward. Lush harmonies color the hymn-like B section as the text evolves into a call for strength despite the troubles that may come.
Find more Five Star Features on our website, or contact us for creative ideas during these unprecedented times. Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Authors:
Jen Sper has been with Stanton’s since 2006. A former middle school and high school choral director, she holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace College Conservatory of Music. An active choral singer and accompanist throughout the Central Ohio area, she also enjoys good food, running (to counteract the good food…) and the Muppets.
Lora Moore joined the Stanton’s choral staff in July 2018. A former middle school and high school director of 32 years, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Choral Music from Capital University and a Master’s of Arts in Choral Music from The Ohio State University. Currently she is a church choir director, operates a private voice/piano studio and is active as a clinician and accompanist. During the off hours, Lora enjoys scouting out new day trips in Ohio to balance what her budget allows for her frequent trips to New York City to visit family and take in a Broadway show or two!